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SHOP NOWThis video breaks down five core Glock upgrades that focus on replacing factory parts rather than adding external accessories. It compares stock components to common modifications to highlight changes in control, ergonomics, and handling.
The video focuses on five essential internal or frame-level upgrades for Glock pistols, based on long-term use in both professional and private roles. The discussion applies to older models like Gen 2 Glock 17s as well as newer Gen 5 pistols such as the Glock 47, 17, 19, and slimline models like the Glock 43X. The host deliberately excludes accessories like red dots, weapon lights, and compensators, emphasizing true part replacements instead of add-ons. Each upgrade is presented as a way to improve control, ergonomics, and consistency under stress, whether for competition, recreational shooting, or self-defense. The list is structured from number five to number one, with real examples drawn from stock Glocks and customized pistols built by Taran Tactical Innovations.
The first upgrade is grip stippling and related frame work. A factory Glock 43X is shown with mild, non-aggressive texture that can become slippery when wet, sweaty, oily, or bloody, potentially affecting shot placement or even causing the pistol to slip. In contrast, a Taran Tactical Innovations Glock 34 Combat Master, given as a 40th birthday gift, features aggressive hand-done stippling that locks the gun into the hand and keeps it stable through thousands of rounds. A TTI Glock 19 Combat Carry is used to demonstrate undercuts on the trigger guard: a single undercut that fits the middle finger more comfortably, and a double undercut that also indexes the support-hand index finger. These changes improve comfort and control. The segment also covers careful mag release modifications. Older Gen 1–3 Glocks have small, hard-to-press mag release buttons, while Gen 4 and Gen 5 models use larger, more robust releases. Taran Tactical bevels the mag release area on a Gen 3 frame so the button protrudes slightly, making reloads easier. However, the host cautions against excessively extended mag releases that can be inadvertently pressed by a tight support-hand grip, causing an unintended magazine drop during a fight or competition.
The next upgrade is the slide release, also called the slide stop lever. A standard Glock lever is shown sitting very flat and flush with the frame. This low profile helps reduce the chance that a shooter’s thumb will ride the lever and prevent the slide from locking to the rear after the last round. Some shooters, however, prefer an extended slide release lever from Glock. The extended version provides more surface area and makes it easier to drop the slide using the thumb during a reload, especially when bringing the pistol into the work area. The host notes that with a proper grip, the thumb does not rest on the lever, so the risk of blocking slide lock is minimized. Another option mentioned is a slide stop from Kagwerks, which extends up onto the slide itself. This design moves the contact point higher, further reducing the chance of the thumb interfering with slide lock. Because its geometry is different from a traditional lever, the host stresses the need for retraining and practice if switching to the Kagwerks-style control.
A flared magwell is presented as the next key upgrade. Using a Taran Tactical Innovations Glock 34 Combat Master, the host shows how an aftermarket magwell significantly opens up the magazine well area, guiding magazines into the grip during reloads. This reduces the chance of missing the insertion point when reloading under pressure, whether in a defensive scenario or competition. The segment compares this to a stock Glock 47 Gen 5 and a Glock 43X. On the 43X, the bottom of the frame is flat, so reloads require more precision. Glock began slightly flaring the frames on Gen 5 models, such as the Glock 19 and 17 developed under the FBI contract, to improve reloads. However, this factory flare is described as modest and still less effective than a dedicated aftermarket flared magwell. The recommendation is to install a well-designed flared magwell that meaningfully enlarges and funnels the opening while remaining practical for the intended use.
Trigger upgrades are highlighted as one of the most important changes for a Glock. A Glock 17L with a standard factory trigger is used to demonstrate the stock characteristics: a relatively heavy pull around six pounds or more, noticeable grit, some travel to a defined wall, and a fairly long reset. The system is reliable and functional but not particularly refined. The host then discusses aftermarket options. Glock’s own Performance Trigger is mentioned as a solid improvement while staying within the factory ecosystem. A Timney Alpha trigger installed in a Taran Tactical Glock 19 Combat Carry is used to illustrate a more dramatic change. With the Timney Alpha, there is a short initial slack, then a wall at roughly 90 degrees, followed by a very light, crisp break with virtually no additional travel. The design effectively makes the pistol feel closer to a single-action trigger. Whereas a standard Glock “safe action” system partially cocks the striker and finishes cocking during the press, the Timney Alpha and Glock Performance Trigger keep the striker fully cocked, and the trigger press primarily releases it. This reduces movement during the press and can help maintain sight alignment and stability through the shot.
Before revealing the top-ranked upgrade, the host introduces an honorable mention: magazine baseplates that increase capacity. Standard Glock 19 and Glock 23 magazines typically hold 15 rounds, while Glock 17 magazines hold 17 rounds. By installing extended baseplates, shooters can add rounds beyond these factory capacities. The segment notes that these baseplates are a common modification for those who want more ammunition on board without changing the core pistol platform. The discussion is brief and focuses on the concept of using replacement baseplates to expand capacity rather than altering the magazines in other ways.
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